Principal, The PRIDE Academy (formerly Young People’s Academy)

The PRIDE Academy is a co-educational secondary special school for students with social, emotional and mental health needs and some students have co-existing conditions, such as Autism.   The PRIDE Academy is part of an established family of specialist academies that make up Orchard Hill College Academy Trust, which is currently comprised of 15 academies across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire. The Trust was established by Orchard Hill College and together Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust provide for over 1500 pupils and students with a wide range of learning abilities and additional needs.

The new Principal of The Pride Academy will be in the fantastic position of having a brand new, fit for purpose school ready for them when they join the school. Located on its current site, the new school is due for completion in April 2022 and will have outstanding teaching, vocational, therapy and recreational facilities.

You will be an experienced senior leader, with demonstrable success of leading a service for children who have social, emotional and mental health needs.  You will have the ability to lead change and raise standards, alongside a desire to create an outstanding service for our young people.  This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting contribution to services locally and truly change the opportunities for young people as we look to provide the best opportunities for independence for our students beyond school.

You will not work alone.  We are collegiate and as a result, there is the opportunity to engage with peers in internal professional networks as well as benefit from a supportive Executive Team who are highly committed and dedicated to success.   

Please refer to the application pack including the job description and person specification for further details.

To apply for the role please use the quick apply option to submit an application. If you have any queries, please contact jobs@orchardhill.ac.uk.

Your application form will be scored according to each of the requirements laid out in the person specification for this role. Please demonstrate in your statement how your experience, skills and knowledge match the criteria that are required for the role. Failure to show evidence will result in your application not being shortlisted for interview.

Please note that CV applications will not be considered.

Closing Date: 21st April 2022

Interviews will take place on: 28th April 2022

Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Appointments made will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.